Country

:

United Kingdom

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Vocal

 

City Waites is a classical music ensemble that specializes in early music, particularly from the 16th and 17th centuries. The group was founded in 1979 by Lucie Skeaping and Michael Solomons, who were both passionate about reviving the music of the past and bringing it to modern audiences. The ensemble's name is a nod to the "waits," or town musicians, who were a common feature of English towns and cities in the medieval and early modern periods. These musicians would play for civic events, processions, and other occasions, and their music was often a mix of popular tunes, dance music, and more formal compositions. City Waites has a core group of members who perform on a variety of instruments, including lute, viola da gamba, recorder, and percussion. Over the years, the ensemble has also collaborated with a number of guest musicians and singers, depending on the repertoire being performed. One of the highlights of City Waites' career was their performance at the 1981 Edinburgh Festival, where they presented a program of music from the time of Shakespeare. The ensemble's lively and engaging performance style was a hit with audiences, and they went on to perform at festivals and concerts throughout the UK and Europe. In addition to their live performances, City Waites has also recorded a number of albums, including "The English Tradition," which features music from the 16th and 17th centuries, and "The Beggar's Opera," a popular 18th-century work that satirizes the politics and society of the time. City Waites has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, including the prestigious Gramophone Award for their recording of "The Beggar's Opera." The ensemble has also been featured on BBC Radio and television programs, and their music has been used in films and television shows. Despite their success, City Waites remains committed to their mission of bringing early music to modern audiences. The ensemble continues to perform and record, and their lively and engaging performances are a testament to the enduring appeal of this music from the past.

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